WHIRLWIND EXPLANATION: Pokémon have a fixed, permanent score from 0 to 31 for each stat that affects how good that stat can ever get.

This calculator will figure out that score (called a "gene" or, more obtusely, an "IV") for you, so you can discard the unworthy. It's more accurate for higher-level Pokémon, so it's helpful to go into a level 100 wifi battle with someone and check your Pokémon's stats from there.